How to enforce a ‘No weapons’ policy

Q.What does an employer need to do to keep licensed handgun owners from bringing guns onto its premises?

A. Texas law makes it an offense for the holder of a handgun permit to enter a facility with a handgun if he or she has received oral or written communication that the facility is handgun free.

To provide such notice to the public, an employer should post a sign stating:
Pursuant to Section 30.06 of the Penal Code (Trespass by Holder of License to Carry a Concealed Handgun), a person licensed under Article 4413 (29EE), Revised Statutes (Concealed Handgun Law), may not enter this property with a concealed handgun.

This sign must be printed in both English and Spanish, appear in contrasting colors in block letters at least 1 inch high, and be placed where it is clearly visible to the public.

Currently, employers also can ban employees from bringing guns on their premises. Legislation that would restrict an employer’s rights has been passed in other states. Similar bills were introduced in the latest session of the Texas Legislature but were not passed. Given the continued interest in this issue, it is likely that it again will be considered in the legislative session that begins in 2009.